Leaf Spot on pothos
What's Happening
Fungal leaf spot disease on pothos (Epipremnum aureum) caused by soil-borne pathogens (Fusarium, Pythium, or Phyllosticta species) that infect leaves when roots are compromised by prolonged soil moisture. Pathogens travel through vascular tissue to leaf tissue, producing characteristic interveinal spotting patterns distinct from edge-based fertilizer burn.
How to Fix It
- 1
Inspect roots by gently unpotting; trim blackened/mushy roots with sterilized shears and repot in fresh well-draining aroid mix
- 2
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; use finger test or moisture meter to verify top 2-3 inches are dry
- 3
Improve air circulation with fan on low speed and maintain 40-60% humidity to prevent fungal spore germination
- 4
Apply systemic fungicide (thiophanate-methyl or propiconazole) following label dilution rates for houseplants if spots continue expanding
- 5
Quarantine affected plants and sterilize all tools with 70% isopropyl alcohol between cuts to prevent cross-contamination
How to Prevent It
Water only when top 2-3 inches of soil are completely dry; wait for foliage tips to just begin drooping as a watering cue. Use well-draining aroid mix with 30% perlite minimum. Maintain 40-60% humidity with active air circulation (small fan) to prevent spore germination on leaf surfaces.
Related Problems
Same Problem on Other Plants
Go Deeper
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